Insomnia medication available, but talk to your doctor first
Insomnia is one of the most widespread sleep disorders, marked by the inability to fall asleep easily or to stay asleep during the night. It can be caused by stress; stimulants, such as caffeine; pain; depression; or a change in one's daily work schedule. It becomes especially problematic when it continues for weeks or months on end.
The initial approach to treating insomnia often involves identifying issues or conditions that may be causing the problem and taking steps to correct them. For many people, this tactic is quite successful. However, some people simply can't solve their sleep problems through behavioral means alone."When we can't identify a specific cause for insomnia that can be addressed through behavior modification or other more conservative means, we have medications that can provide relief," says Dalius Kedainis, MD, a physician specializing in internal medicine on staff at SSM St. Joseph Hospital West.
"People sometimes express fear of dependence on sleep medications, but the newer types of prescriptions we provide are very safe and effective when used under a doctor's care," he adds.
Ironically, some medications, such as antihistamines, may contribute to insomnia, so your physician will consider all the medicines and supplements you take when determining exactly how to approach insomnia treatment.
To help make patients more comfortable about using a sleep medication, Kedainis and other physicians who treat insomnia typically begin with the lowest possible effective dose. Generally, these medicines are used for a relatively short period of time -Â they are not considered a long-term fix for the problem but can offer some relief to those whose daily lives are negatively affected by insomnia.
"We find that for patients who have chronic insomnia that doesn't respond to behavior modification, the short-term use of a sleep medication can be a welcome respite," Kedainis says.
However, he notes that insomniacs should not attempt to self-medicate or to stop taking a prescription sleep aid without first checking with their physician.
"Working with your doctor on solving your sleep problem is much safer and more effective than trying to handle it on your own," he says.
Some of the most effective prescription sleep aids are known as hypnotics (also referred to as "benzodiazepine agonists") and are designed to induce drowsiness and sleep. If a patient's insomnia is related to anxiety or depression, an anti-anxiety medication or antidepressant may be extremely helpful both to sleep and to daily function.
The bottom line is that people who have chronic insomnia are putting their health at risk by avoiding proper treatment. Your doctor can work with you to improve your sleep habits and provide appropriate medications as needed. Help is available, so see your physician and then rest easy.
